When CAF conducted the draw for the CAF Champions League group stage and Yanga were placed in the same group with Al Ahly, AS FAR, and JS Kabylie, many reactions expressed sympathy toward Yanga.
Some analysts dismissed Yanga, believing they stood no chance in Group D against North African giants—all of whom have a history of winning the Champions League title.
But after two matches, opinions have begun to shift as Yanga have made an impressive start to their quest for a quarter-final spot in this so-called “Group of Death.”
The “Wananchi” sit second in the group with four points, level with leaders Al Ahly, separated only by goal difference.
The Tanzanian champions have effectively silenced those who doubted them, standing out as the only team from Tanzania performing strongly in CAF competitions this season.
Yanga remain unbeaten, while their rivals Simba—who entered the competition with heavy praise—have lost both of their opening matches, just like Azam FC, who started poorly in the Confederation Cup.
Singida BS at least managed to avoid defeat yesterday, securing a 1–1 home draw against South Africa’s Stellenbosch.
So far, Yanga have responded to mockery and disrespect on the pitch. The “Wananchi” have let the critics talk—and then silenced them with results…!
